Zesty Mexican Chicken (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For Chicken

01 - 1½ lbs. thinly cut chicken breast with no skin or bones (roughly 6 pieces)
02 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
06 - ½ teaspoon dried oregano
07 - 1½ teaspoons paprika
08 - 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
09 - ¼ teaspoon salt
10 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
11 - Olive oil

→ For Cheese Sauce

12 - 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
13 - 2 tablespoons butter
14 - 1 cup milk
15 - ¼ teaspoon salt
16 - ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
17 - ¼ teaspoon paprika
18 - 1 cup freshly grated extra sharp cheddar cheese

→ Garnish

19 - Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley if you want

# Instructions:

01 - Get your oven hot at 425°. Cover a big baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
02 - Combine all chicken seasonings in a small bowl. Put the chicken on your lined tray. Pour a bit of olive oil on each piece and rub it all over. Sprinkle your spice mix on both sides and rub it in good.
03 - Cook in your hot oven for about 15-18 mins, or until the chicken hits 165° inside.
04 - While chicken's cooking, melt your butter in a small pot over medium heat. Once it's melty, throw in the flour and whisk it all smooth.
05 - Slowly pour in milk while whisking non-stop until it's smooth. Add your grated cheese and keep whisking till it's all melted. Mix in the paprika and cayenne until everything's blended.
06 - Put your chicken on whatever grain you like, pour cheese sauce on top, and add some fresh herbs if you're feeling fancy.

# Notes:

01 - Grate your own cheese for smoother melting
02 - Make it more or less spicy if you want
03 - Works with any grain you prefer